Addiction Therapists in 90028

Photo of Christine Wolf, CADC-II, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Christine Wolf
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC-II
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90028
I've worked in the field of addiction for several years.
Do you want to get closer to finding inner peace and alleviate your suffering? Do you want to live a better life? Do you want to find your authentic self again? There is no cookie cutter approach to healing.
I've worked in the field of addiction for several years.
Do you want to get closer to finding inner peace and alleviate your suffering? Do you want to live a better life? Do you want to find your authentic self again? There is no cookie cutter approach to healing.
(213) 348-7449 View (213) 348-7449
Photo of Howard Christie Samuels - Dr. Howard C. Samuels Therapy, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Howard C. Samuels Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90028
As a former addict I understand how to navigate & overcome substance use disorder.
You want to overcome addiction, substance use disorder, relationship or family issues but don't know how or where to begin.
As a former addict I understand how to navigate & overcome substance use disorder.
You want to overcome addiction, substance use disorder, relationship or family issues but don't know how or where to begin.
(323) 693-8521 View (323) 693-8521
Photo of Lital Shvarts, PsyD, Psychologist
Lital Shvarts
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hollywood, CA 90028  (Online Only)
My broad experience includes working with issues related to developmental and interpersonal trauma as well as addiction and recovery.
Establishing a meaningful therapeutic connection is the foundation for learning how to improve one's quality of life, develop healthy relationships and cope more effectively with life stressors. Through the therapeutic relationship, I work together with my clients to address and resolve various psychological symptoms and underlying concerns to help them lead healthier lives. I specialize in treating individuals who may be having difficulty coping with present life problems or trying to manage living with the impact of traumatic experiences. I believe that developing healthy coping skills and processing underlying issues leads to a relief in symptoms and an ability to re-engage in life.
My broad experience includes working with issues related to developmental and interpersonal trauma as well as addiction and recovery.
Establishing a meaningful therapeutic connection is the foundation for learning how to improve one's quality of life, develop healthy relationships and cope more effectively with life stressors. Through the therapeutic relationship, I work together with my clients to address and resolve various psychological symptoms and underlying concerns to help them lead healthier lives. I specialize in treating individuals who may be having difficulty coping with present life problems or trying to manage living with the impact of traumatic experiences. I believe that developing healthy coping skills and processing underlying issues leads to a relief in symptoms and an ability to re-engage in life.
(323) 553-7275 View (323) 553-7275
Photo of Robert Buhrow, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robert Buhrow
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hollywood, CA 90028  (Online Only)
Addictions are another area of specialty.
Insight, encouragement, and challenge to grow, mixed with a healthy dose of humor makes for great success in the Baking Oven of life! Learning comes from multiple sources, such as life experience, books, others, and training. Learning without growing and maturing is not the definition of wisdom. What do you think? Want to grow wiser together, then call me. Making better decisions in life, helps for greater happiness and joy. A trauma of your past controlling you today? Unresolved traumas can cause addiction and relationship issues. Learn how to take the control back, how to get your life back, and how to enjoy life again.
Addictions are another area of specialty.
Insight, encouragement, and challenge to grow, mixed with a healthy dose of humor makes for great success in the Baking Oven of life! Learning comes from multiple sources, such as life experience, books, others, and training. Learning without growing and maturing is not the definition of wisdom. What do you think? Want to grow wiser together, then call me. Making better decisions in life, helps for greater happiness and joy. A trauma of your past controlling you today? Unresolved traumas can cause addiction and relationship issues. Learn how to take the control back, how to get your life back, and how to enjoy life again.
(865) 459-4962 View (865) 459-4962
Photo of Ian W Holloway, PhD, LCSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ian W Holloway
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
Hollywood, CA 90028  (Online Only)
As a faculty member in the Department of Social Welfare at UCLA, I develop and test mental health and substance abuse interventions for diverse populations.
I work with diverse clients who seek to improve their health and well-being through collaborative, goal-directed therapy. Together, we will assess your strengths and challenges to relationships and develop tailored interventions that are responsive to your social and emotional needs.
As a faculty member in the Department of Social Welfare at UCLA, I develop and test mental health and substance abuse interventions for diverse populations.
I work with diverse clients who seek to improve their health and well-being through collaborative, goal-directed therapy. Together, we will assess your strengths and challenges to relationships and develop tailored interventions that are responsive to your social and emotional needs.
(747) 337-3611 View (747) 337-3611
Photo of Nicholas Russi, LAADC-S, CCS, ICAADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Nicholas Russi
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LAADC-S, CCS, ICAADC
Verified Verified
Hollywood, CA 90028
For many years I struggled with addiction, Anxiety, and depression.
**Telehealth Video sessions are available** Are you having trouble controlling your drinking but feel like "rehab" isn't for you? Have loved ones in your life pleaded with you to stop? Is your alcohol or drug use causing relationship issues? Anxiety problems? I know exactly how your feeling. Alcohol or drug abuse can extremely difficult to manage on your own. For the last 19 years I’ve been helping clients navigate the personal recovery process and the trials and tribulations they come with it. If you are in a place in your life where you are ready to make some needed changes, I can help you be free from the grips of addiction.
For many years I struggled with addiction, Anxiety, and depression.
**Telehealth Video sessions are available** Are you having trouble controlling your drinking but feel like "rehab" isn't for you? Have loved ones in your life pleaded with you to stop? Is your alcohol or drug use causing relationship issues? Anxiety problems? I know exactly how your feeling. Alcohol or drug abuse can extremely difficult to manage on your own. For the last 19 years I’ve been helping clients navigate the personal recovery process and the trials and tribulations they come with it. If you are in a place in your life where you are ready to make some needed changes, I can help you be free from the grips of addiction.
(626) 264-8545 View (626) 264-8545
Photo of Taylor Harris, MA, LPC, Counselor
Taylor Harris
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Hollywood, CA 90028
I specialize in trauma recovery, somatic embodiment, addiction, attachment, relationship challenges, and existential concerns.
Welcome to Flourish Mindset! I'm Taylor Harris, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a passion for guiding individuals, couples, and families through their journey to healing, growth, and self-discovery. I bring an integrative, somatic, and systems-oriented approach to therapy, drawing from humanistic, existential, and transpersonal schools. I am dedicated to creating a safe space for clients to explore the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. My therapeutic style is rooted in compassion, empathy, and creating a non-judgmental space where you can be your authentic self.
I specialize in trauma recovery, somatic embodiment, addiction, attachment, relationship challenges, and existential concerns.
Welcome to Flourish Mindset! I'm Taylor Harris, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a passion for guiding individuals, couples, and families through their journey to healing, growth, and self-discovery. I bring an integrative, somatic, and systems-oriented approach to therapy, drawing from humanistic, existential, and transpersonal schools. I am dedicated to creating a safe space for clients to explore the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. My therapeutic style is rooted in compassion, empathy, and creating a non-judgmental space where you can be your authentic self.
(323) 312-3893 View (323) 312-3893
Photo of Charles Henry Karsters - Charles Karsters LLC, LMHC, LPCC, Counselor
Charles Karsters LLC
Counselor, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Hollywood, CA 90028  (Online Only)
I am licensed both in California and Hawaii. Trained in EMDR. Your life may have changed significantly in ways that you did not expect because of the pandemic. You had certain plans, goals, and dreams but now you are facing isolation, depression, and lack of motivation. Or you may be experiencing problems with relationships, finances, or substance abuse. Regardless of the issues you are facing, if you are feeling worried, anxious, guilty, or confused, now is the time for you to regain control of your life.
I am licensed both in California and Hawaii. Trained in EMDR. Your life may have changed significantly in ways that you did not expect because of the pandemic. You had certain plans, goals, and dreams but now you are facing isolation, depression, and lack of motivation. Or you may be experiencing problems with relationships, finances, or substance abuse. Regardless of the issues you are facing, if you are feeling worried, anxious, guilty, or confused, now is the time for you to regain control of your life.
(808) 336-7270 View (808) 336-7270
Photo of Taylor 'tara' Donlan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Taylor 'tara' Donlan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90028
I have extensive experience in working with adults struggling with depression; grief and loss; anxiety; relationship conflict/divorce; loneliness; low self esteem; mid-life crises; addiction; creative blocks; fear of change/life transitions and aging issues, with a focus on supporting “dynamic” aging.
Deeply committed to personal growth myself, I know how hard it can be sometimes, how trapped we can feel when we find ourselves repeating painful patterns, unable to learn and grow from our life experiences or make the changes we need... That’s why I will provide you with a safe and supportive environment, a compassionate atmosphere free of judgment and shame as we explore and sort through what has brought you to this challenging turning point in your life… Everything you need to create a meaningful, fulfilling life is within you.
I have extensive experience in working with adults struggling with depression; grief and loss; anxiety; relationship conflict/divorce; loneliness; low self esteem; mid-life crises; addiction; creative blocks; fear of change/life transitions and aging issues, with a focus on supporting “dynamic” aging.
Deeply committed to personal growth myself, I know how hard it can be sometimes, how trapped we can feel when we find ourselves repeating painful patterns, unable to learn and grow from our life experiences or make the changes we need... That’s why I will provide you with a safe and supportive environment, a compassionate atmosphere free of judgment and shame as we explore and sort through what has brought you to this challenging turning point in your life… Everything you need to create a meaningful, fulfilling life is within you.
(323) 992-0268 View (323) 992-0268
Photo of Paul-Roy Taylor, PhD, Psychologist
Paul-Roy Taylor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hollywood, CA 90028  (Online Only)
You can indeed change your feelings and behaviors, even if that change has seemed unachievable in the past. Perhaps you've already tried to address your concerns on your own. Maybe progress was more difficult than you thought or it proved to be short-lived. If you're ready for change, my goal is to help you move forward toward the life you want to live. I specialize in optimizing peer, romantic, and family relationships; reducing or eliminating substance use and addictive behaviors; and breaking unhelpful patterns around sex, dating, and technology. I welcome and respect all relationship styles and addiction goals.
You can indeed change your feelings and behaviors, even if that change has seemed unachievable in the past. Perhaps you've already tried to address your concerns on your own. Maybe progress was more difficult than you thought or it proved to be short-lived. If you're ready for change, my goal is to help you move forward toward the life you want to live. I specialize in optimizing peer, romantic, and family relationships; reducing or eliminating substance use and addictive behaviors; and breaking unhelpful patterns around sex, dating, and technology. I welcome and respect all relationship styles and addiction goals.
(323) 366-8067 View (323) 366-8067
Photo of Georgina Kim Smith - Revolve Recovery Intensive Outpatient Center, PhD
Why Are We Here? We are here because addiction is an epidemic.
Whether you just completed residential treatment, or you’re in sober or transitional living, or you’re independently seeking a more intensive therapy experience, Revolve Recovery’s trauma-focused intensive outpatient program tailors it’s dynamic, comprehensive, and innovative approaches to effectively treat those dealing with trauma, PTSD, complex trauma, addiction, and the spectrum of co-occurring disorders. Our clients come to Revolve yearning for deeper, more intensively focused trauma therapy, and yearning for tangible action and change, dynamic life and relational shifts, relief, and lasting healing.
Why Are We Here? We are here because addiction is an epidemic.
Whether you just completed residential treatment, or you’re in sober or transitional living, or you’re independently seeking a more intensive therapy experience, Revolve Recovery’s trauma-focused intensive outpatient program tailors it’s dynamic, comprehensive, and innovative approaches to effectively treat those dealing with trauma, PTSD, complex trauma, addiction, and the spectrum of co-occurring disorders. Our clients come to Revolve yearning for deeper, more intensively focused trauma therapy, and yearning for tangible action and change, dynamic life and relational shifts, relief, and lasting healing.
(424) 384-1373 View (424) 384-1373
Photo of Shira Taylor Rebibo - Shira Rebibo LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shira Rebibo LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90028  (Online Only)
Shira Rebibo is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Los Angeles. She earned her Bachelor's Degree in English and Biology at Sonoma State University and received her Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy, Professional Clinical Counseling, Depth Psychology, and evidence-based practices at Pacifica Graduate Institute. Shira has enjoyed working with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, and behavioral issues. Shira enjoys working with children, teenagers, families and adults.
Shira Rebibo is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Los Angeles. She earned her Bachelor's Degree in English and Biology at Sonoma State University and received her Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy, Professional Clinical Counseling, Depth Psychology, and evidence-based practices at Pacifica Graduate Institute. Shira has enjoyed working with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, and behavioral issues. Shira enjoys working with children, teenagers, families and adults.
(626) 765-3206 View (626) 765-3206
Photo of Patrick Ruaraidh Hunter - Rory Hunter Therapy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rory Hunter Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90028
EMDR trained and a CSAT (Certified Sex Addiction Therapy) Candidate.
Reaching out for help can be an intimidating journey, yet it's an act of profound courage that often emerges from the depths of vulnerability. We are inherently social beings, and our interactions shape our understanding of ourselves. But sometimes we find ourselves alone or feeling alone even when surround by people. I believe in guiding individuals from that shadow back into the light. I want to help people become the best versions of themselves. And to understand and accept that we cannot, nor should we try to be, the best version of someone else.
EMDR trained and a CSAT (Certified Sex Addiction Therapy) Candidate.
Reaching out for help can be an intimidating journey, yet it's an act of profound courage that often emerges from the depths of vulnerability. We are inherently social beings, and our interactions shape our understanding of ourselves. But sometimes we find ourselves alone or feeling alone even when surround by people. I believe in guiding individuals from that shadow back into the light. I want to help people become the best versions of themselves. And to understand and accept that we cannot, nor should we try to be, the best version of someone else.
(213) 722-4286 View (213) 722-4286
Photo of Michelle Susan Webber, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Susan Webber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hollywood, CA 90028  (Online Only)
Licensed in both California and Connecticut - Psychotherapist, Addiction Specialist and Life Coach. Living life to the fullest is an adventure. It takes courage to go forward, to harness the power within. This is where Psychotherapy and Life Coaching meet. This is an opportunity to help you make smart choices and assist you in finding a sense of peace and acceptance while you move forward in your life. I am available to help you reach your personal and professional goals. I have studied mindfulness and work with clients who want to know more about it and embrace it. I look forward to hearing from you.
Licensed in both California and Connecticut - Psychotherapist, Addiction Specialist and Life Coach. Living life to the fullest is an adventure. It takes courage to go forward, to harness the power within. This is where Psychotherapy and Life Coaching meet. This is an opportunity to help you make smart choices and assist you in finding a sense of peace and acceptance while you move forward in your life. I am available to help you reach your personal and professional goals. I have studied mindfulness and work with clients who want to know more about it and embrace it. I look forward to hearing from you.
(323) 523-5957 View (323) 523-5957
Photo of Dr. Jeff J. Rocker, PhD, NCC, LPCC, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Dr. Jeff J. Rocker
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPCC, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90028
He also works with clients with debilitating addiction issues.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
He also works with clients with debilitating addiction issues.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
(562) 685-9636 View (562) 685-9636
Photo of Dr. Talia Barach, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist
Dr. Talia Barach
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90028  (Online Only)
I work with women struggling with relationships, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, major life transitions, and finding balance. I’m interested in getting to know the whole you — which is someone far greater than any single role in life or any single struggle or experience. Your therapy will be tailored to your individual needs, and we will work together to define what you truly want out of life. Through building a compassionate and healing space, we can take an honest look inward to help you develop an enriching life that feels more meaningful and satisfying.
I work with women struggling with relationships, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, major life transitions, and finding balance. I’m interested in getting to know the whole you — which is someone far greater than any single role in life or any single struggle or experience. Your therapy will be tailored to your individual needs, and we will work together to define what you truly want out of life. Through building a compassionate and healing space, we can take an honest look inward to help you develop an enriching life that feels more meaningful and satisfying.
(310) 439-9673 View (310) 439-9673
Photo of Kim Carlson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kim Carlson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90028
Whether it is the challenges of starting out on your own, marriage and parenthood, the loss of a loved one, more fulfilling relationships, or addiction, I can help you gain the support and tools needed to feel more in control and reach your potential.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, confused, or "in a funk?" Are you at a point in your life when your ideas of where you should be don't match up with where you are? Does it seem as though there is no way out of your current situation? I can help you navigate your way through these feelings to a place where you have more clarity and choice about what you think, feel, and do. With a sensitive and non-judgmental therapist, you will gain the ability to explore the parts of yourself that will bring about the changes you desire and more.
Whether it is the challenges of starting out on your own, marriage and parenthood, the loss of a loved one, more fulfilling relationships, or addiction, I can help you gain the support and tools needed to feel more in control and reach your potential.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, confused, or "in a funk?" Are you at a point in your life when your ideas of where you should be don't match up with where you are? Does it seem as though there is no way out of your current situation? I can help you navigate your way through these feelings to a place where you have more clarity and choice about what you think, feel, and do. With a sensitive and non-judgmental therapist, you will gain the ability to explore the parts of yourself that will bring about the changes you desire and more.
(323) 529-3799 View (323) 529-3799
Photo of Gregory Walston, PhD, MFT, CPRP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gregory Walston
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT, CPRP
Verified Verified
Hollywood, CA 90028  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in issues important to LGBTQI individuals/couples/families, like substance use recovery, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, coming out process, acceptance/family issues, HIV adjustment issues, men's issues, grief/loss, men and trauma, other gender issues, and psychological recovery from trauma. I enjoy helping LGBT people resolve early child/family issues that continue to block happiness. Also, I am experienced in helping teens. Whether you feel lost, stuck, or empty, let's work together to help you build a happier foundation, resolving any issues that hold you back so you can move forward and reclaim your life!
I specialize in issues important to LGBTQI individuals/couples/families, like substance use recovery, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, coming out process, acceptance/family issues, HIV adjustment issues, men's issues, grief/loss, men and trauma, other gender issues, and psychological recovery from trauma. I enjoy helping LGBT people resolve early child/family issues that continue to block happiness. Also, I am experienced in helping teens. Whether you feel lost, stuck, or empty, let's work together to help you build a happier foundation, resolving any issues that hold you back so you can move forward and reclaim your life!
(818) 351-7109 View (818) 351-7109
Photo of Wayne Reynolds, MFA, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wayne Reynolds
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFA, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90028
I work with anxiety, depression, self-discovery, trauma, addiction, mood disorders, personality disorders, and relationships.
I am interested in working with people who feel stuck, want to move forward and sense they need to make a change. It could be work, school, a creative endeavor, family issues, a pattern in intimate relationships, an addiction of some kind, or even just messed-up thinking. My goal is to create a safe environment where you can come, shed old patterns, and explore what you want to do with your life.
I work with anxiety, depression, self-discovery, trauma, addiction, mood disorders, personality disorders, and relationships.
I am interested in working with people who feel stuck, want to move forward and sense they need to make a change. It could be work, school, a creative endeavor, family issues, a pattern in intimate relationships, an addiction of some kind, or even just messed-up thinking. My goal is to create a safe environment where you can come, shed old patterns, and explore what you want to do with your life.
(323) 405-3570 View (323) 405-3570
Photo of Kayren Burke, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kayren Burke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90028  (Online Only)
Before private practice, my working experience has been in an addiction rehabilitation in patient treatment center, individual counseling with the prison/homeless population, particularly with the LGBTQ community, and with children, adolescents and families as a school counselor.
The healing process and journey towards an integrated self begins within the structure of a safe and trusting relationship with your therapist. I provide a non-judgmental therapeutic environment in order to facilitate your self-exploration and help you return to vitality. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults, with a focus on emotional distress, anxiety, depression, adjusting to life transitions (i.e. divorce, new baby), trauma and substance abuse. I utilize a pragmatic yet holistic approach which integrates empathy, psychodynamic theory, mindfulness as well cognitive behavioral therapy to promote change towards wholeness and authenticity.
Before private practice, my working experience has been in an addiction rehabilitation in patient treatment center, individual counseling with the prison/homeless population, particularly with the LGBTQ community, and with children, adolescents and families as a school counselor.
The healing process and journey towards an integrated self begins within the structure of a safe and trusting relationship with your therapist. I provide a non-judgmental therapeutic environment in order to facilitate your self-exploration and help you return to vitality. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults, with a focus on emotional distress, anxiety, depression, adjusting to life transitions (i.e. divorce, new baby), trauma and substance abuse. I utilize a pragmatic yet holistic approach which integrates empathy, psychodynamic theory, mindfulness as well cognitive behavioral therapy to promote change towards wholeness and authenticity.
(323) 924-3222 View (323) 924-3222
1
Addiction Therapists

What is the best therapy for addiction?

Addiction treatment will be tailored to the individual. People seeking help for addiction—whether with a psychotherapist, in an outpatient clinic, or in a residential program—should expect to engage in multiple types of treatments, sometimes including medication. For anyone recovering from addiction, avoiding situations in which one has typically used a substance is essential, as is the support of close connections. Since substance use disorders tend to co-occur with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, those must also be addressed as part of any recovery plan.

How long does therapy for addiction take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from addiction. Patients and their families should expect the work to last several months, if not longer. Residential treatment programs may be based on a stay of 30, 60, or 90 days, with continuing work after release, but only about 1 percent of people are treated in such facilities. Ceasing use is just the first step; therapy to help maintain abstinence and effect behavior change must follow. The process of recovery, neuroscience has shown, involves brain cells recovering the capacity to respond to natural sources of reward and restore control over the impulse to use. Another definition of recovery is restoring voluntary control over one’s substance use and retaking all of one’s previous responsibilities.

How effective is drug addiction treatment?

Substance use disorders are treatable and remission is achievable for many who seek recovery; by some estimates, more than three-quarters of people who become addicted to alcohol or drugs recover. But that success rarely occurs quickly or on a set timeline; relapse is not only common, but many therapists and clinicians view it as a normal part of the process—not always a sign that a person has returned to addiction, but a signal that their treatment should be adjusted to help them regain control. Overall, research suggests, five years after the end of substance use, one’s risk of relapse is no greater than that of others who had not faced addiction. Other experts believe that complete abstinence is not the only measure of recovery, and that, through effective treatment, many people can learn to control their use.

How can you get addiction treatment for someone?

The most important factor in recovery from addiction is widely understood to be an individual’s commitment to change. For that reason,“interventions” in which friends and family gather to urge or force someone to begin immediate treatment often backfire; even when such efforts do lead someone to begin treatment, they may be less likely to stay than those who are self-driven. Still, family members can play an important role in supporting an individual who seeks help and can take part in family therapy as one element of a loved one’s treatment.